A pharmacist has issued a salmonella warning to Brits as cases rise in the UK.
Salmonella can cause unpleasant symptoms but there are ways you can avoid the infection.
Ian Budd, lead prescribing pharmacist at Chemist4U, said: “Salmonella is a group of bacteria comprising more than 2,500 different strains, although only some are responsible for causing food poisoning in humans.
“While most infections are relatively mild, they can sometimes lead to serious illness, particularly in young children, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems.
“In recent days and weeks, the UKHSA has announced that an outbreak affecting seven countries has led to one death and 34 hospitalisations in the UK.”
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) confirmed 207 cases between August 11 last year and August 1 this year, with 199 in England, six in Scotland, one in Wales, and one in Northern Ireland.
It said the outbreak "may be linked to eggs imported from outside of the UK."
The Food Standards Agency (FSA) said there is "no evidence that UK-produced eggs are affected".
While eggs could be the issue in this case, the pharmacist reminds Brits that salmonella can be found in a number of other food products, including chicken, pork and even fruit.
Budd added: “Similarly, if any fresh fruit or vegetables have come into contact with the bacteria, they can also present a risk to you.”
What are the symptoms of salmonella?
You can expect salmonella symptoms to typically develop between a few hours and a few days after exposure.
They can include diarrhoea, cramps in the stomach, nausea, vomiting and a fever.
Ian Budd adds: “While these symptoms usually only last from 4-7 days, it is vital that you seek medical advice if diarrhoea or vomiting lasts for more than two to three days without improving, you have blood in your stool or have a prolonged high fever.”
The NHS explains that symptoms can sometimes start after “a few weeks.”
You can read more about salmonella and when you need to call 111 or 999 via the NHS website.
How do you get salmonella?
Contaminated food that hasn’t been cooked correctly can cause salmonella, but you can also get it by drinking contaminated water or by being in close contact with infected animals.
How you can avoid salmonella
If you want to avoid salmonella, there are a few things you can do.
Budd suggests: “As salmonella bacteria is most commonly spread through contaminated food products, one of the best ways to avoid contracting it is through proper food preparation and hygiene.
“When cooking food, make sure to thoroughly wash your hands before preparing food and after handling raw meat or eggs.
“Make sure to cook foods all the way through and always avoid cross-contamination between raw and cooked foods.
We have published a news story on the latest investigations into an outbreak of #Salmonella Enteritidis.
Full story: https://t.co/5xG7Tnl6gj pic.twitter.com/ZFriCC3bWb— UK Health Security Agency (@UKHSA) August 27, 2026
“Similarly, regularly washing food, utensils and chopping boards with hot water will minimise the possibility of contracting salmonella.
“As well as practising good hygiene, remember to check the temperature of your fridge and ensure you are following the sell by dates on your produce.”
What to do if you think you have salmonella
Make sure you’re staying hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids.
The pharmacist also advises adding oral rehydration sachets or solutions to replace electrolytes you may have lost through vomiting and diarrhoea.
He added: “Avoid any spicy or fatty foods as these can increase feelings of nausea and make sure not to drink fizzy drinks or fruit juice as these can worsen diarrhoea symptoms.
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“If the symptoms of salmonella are causing you pain and discomfort, you can also take paracetamol, making sure to check the information leaflet first before taking.
“If you are at higher risk of complications, such as if you are pregnant, elderly or have a weakened immune system, you should seek medical advice if you begin to feel unwell.
“As mentioned, if you are experiencing blood in your stools, persistent symptoms, prolonged high fever or signs of dehydration such as dizziness, dry mouth, or passing very little dark urine, please seek medical advice.”
What do you do to reduce your risk of getting salmonella? Let us know in the comments.
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